Prior to Procedure

Anesthesia

You may be given local anesthesia. This numbs the area
where the needle will enter the joint.

Description of the Procedure

The area where the needle will be inserted will be cleaned. Next, a needle attached to a syringe will be inserted into the fluid-filled joint cavity. The fluid will be drawn into the syringe. After this, medication may be injected into the joint through the needle. After the needle is removed, pressure will be put on the spot over the joint. A bandage will be placed over the area.

How Long Will It Take?

About 5-10 minutes

How Much Will It Hurt?

You may feel stinging or burning if local anesthesia is injected into the area.

Post-procedure Care

When you return home after the procedure,
be sure to follow your doctor's
instructions.

Call Your Doctor

After arriving home, contact your doctor if any of the following occurs:

Signs of infection, including fever and chills

Redness, swelling, increasing pain, excessive bleeding, or any discharge from the site

Pain that is not relieved by the medication you have been given

If you think you have an emergency, call for emergency medical services right away.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

Arthritis and rheumatic diseases.
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
website. Available at:
http://www.niams.nih.gov/health%5Finfo/Arthritis/arthritis%5Frheumatic.asp. Updated October 2014. Accessed May 11, 2016.